Could Troy Franklin Be the Future Wide Receiver for the Detroit Lions?
The Detroit Lions have addressed several areas of need on both offense and defense during this offseason.
However, they still have a gap to fill at wide receiver following Josh Reynolds’ departure to the Denver Broncos.
While the Lions have capable receivers such as All-Pro Amon-Ra St. Brown, third-year pro Jameson Williams, and backups Kalif Raymond and Donovan Peoples-Jones, they must prioritize finding a replacement for Reynolds’ production.
Reynolds, a trusted target for Lions quarterback Jared Goff, had a strong 2023 season with 40 catches for 608 yards and five touchdowns.
To address this gap, it’s expected that Detroit general manager Brad Holmes will target a wide receiver in the upcoming NFL Draft in April. If Holmes waits until Day 2, Oregon’s Troy Franklin could be a promising option.
Franklin, known for his exceptional speed and ability to stretch the field vertically, had an outstanding 2023 season at Oregon, setting school records in receiving yards, touchdowns, and 100-yard receiving games.
Projected to be drafted anywhere from late first round to late second round, Franklin could be a good fit for the Lions’ offense. ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller even mocked Franklin to the Lions at No. 61 overall, noting his speed and vertical route expertise.
With his speed and big-play potential, Franklin could seamlessly transition into the role of Detroit’s No. 3 receiver for the 2024 season, making him a valuable addition for Holmes on Day 2 of the draft.
